8 Biggest Airports in Texas

Hey there! Let’s dive into the exciting world of Texas airports, the giant gateways to the vast and vibrant landscapes of the Lone Star State. Texas, the huge place it is, boasts some of the biggest and busiest airports. If you’re always up for a travel tale or someone with a curious mind, you’re in for a treat learning about these hubs.

Ever wondered which airport in Texas is the king of them all in size? Or maybe you’re curious about whether Austin or Dallas has the bigger airport. These questions lead us to the heart of Texas’s air travel scene, showing off the state’s bustling economy and rich culture.

We’re looking at the 8 biggest ones, each a key player in weaving together Texas’s diverse and dynamic story, whether they’re launching daily local flights or welcoming international visitors. So, buckle up! We’re journeying through Texas’s skies, discovering the airports that make travel and trade a breeze in this vast state. Ready to explore the horizons with us? Let’s fly!

Here’s your list of the 8 Biggest Airports in Texas

1. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (17,207 acres)

• Code: DFW

• Elevation: 185 m

The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, also known as DFW, is the biggest airport in Texas that serves the Dallas–Fort Worth area and North Texas. 

It’s a key airport for travelers going in and out of this region. 

DFW is the biggest place where American Airlines, a big airline company, sends its planes to fly around the world. It’s really busy too – in 2022, it was the third most active airport in the world when counting how many planes took off and landed, and it was second in having lots of passengers come through. 

It’s also one of the main airports in the U.S. for flights to other countries, and it’s the second busiest for this in Texas, after Houston’s airport. 

The part of DFW used by American Airlines is super big, making it the second-largest spot for one airline to operate in both the world and the U.S., just after Delta’s hub in Atlanta.

Also read: Best spots for breakfast brunch near DFW Airport

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Hub for:

Aeroméxico Connect, Air Canada, Air France, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, American Eagle, Avianca El Salvador San Salvador, Breeze Airways, British Airways, Contour Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Qantas Melbourne, Qatar Airways, Southern Airways Express, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, United Express, etc 

Parking:

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is streamlined through its online system. 

Start by visiting dfwairport.com/park and input your travel details, including departure and return times, airline, and any applicable promo code.

DFW offers a 4-hour grace period for pre-booked parking, allowing you to enter and exit the parking area up to four hours before or after your reservation without extra charges

Also read: Biggest Airports in North Carolina

2. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (10,000 acres)

• Code: IAH

• Elevation: 30 m

The George Bush Intercontinental Airport, located in Houston, Texas, is a key international airport that serves the Greater Houston area.

Situated about 23 miles north of downtown Houston, this airport is easily accessible from major highways and has scheduled flights to many places within the United States and around the world, covering five continents.

It’s the most active airport in Texas for international passenger traffic and destinations, making it the second busiest in the state and the 15th busiest in the U.S. for all passengers.

The airport spans 10,000 acres, includes five runways, and is a major hub for United Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the world. Sometimes people call it George Bush International Airport or simply Houston International Airport.

Hub for:

United Airlines, Continental Airlines, SkyWest Airlines, WestJet Airlines, Aeroméxico, Air Canada, Air France, Air New Zealand, American Airlines, All Nippon Airways, American Eagle, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, Frontier Airlines, etc

Parking:

Parking at George Bush Intercontinental Airport is available on a first-come, first-served basis and includes spots for disabled parking and electric vehicle charging.

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3. El Paso International Airport (6,800 acres)

• Code: ELP

• Elevation: 1,207 m

• Hub for: Continental Airlines, IFL Group, Ameristar Jet Charter, New Mexico Airlines, C&M Airways

El Paso International Airport (EPIA), or Aeropuerto Internacional de El Paso if you prefer, is a bustling hub just four miles northeast of downtown El Paso, Texas.

It’s the go-to airport for lots of travelers in West Texas, not to mention folks from Southern New Mexico and Northern Mexico too. In 2023, it welcomed a whopping 3.9 million passengers and saw over 96,000 aircraft come and go.

With two concourses, A and B, and 15 ramps ready for action, ELP makes flying in and out a breeze. It’s a special spot for Southwest Airlines—over half the passengers here fly Southwest. 

But it’s not all about Southwest; nine major airlines including Alaska, Allegiant, American, and Delta (to name just a few) choose ELP, alongside a fleet of cargo carriers like Amerijet and FedEx.

Hungry or need to shop? ELP’s got you covered. From Black Mesa for a coffee to Carlos & Mickey’s for some tasty Mexican food, and even a Starbucks for your coffee fix, there’s a little something for everyone. 

Whether you’re grabbing a bite at the PGA Tour Grill or picking up a treat at Cinnabon, El Paso International ensures your travel experience is as enjoyable as your destination.

Also Read: 11 Best Coffee Shops Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Parking: 

• Reserve a spot in the Premium Reserved Parking lot for ultimate convenience right at the baggage claim entrance, ensuring a smooth start to your visit. Just book at least 4 hours ahead. 

• For a blend of affordability and proximity, check out our West Lot, a new addition offering 150 extra parking spaces for all travelers. 

• With options for both short and long-term stays, our parking services are designed to suit any travel duration, ensuring your airport parking is easy and cost-effective.

Ground Transportation:

Sun Metro’s bus routes 33 and 208 are available directly outside the terminal. To reach Amtrak and the El Paso Streetcar, you’ll need to transfer to either bus 50 or 59 at the Eastside Terminal.

Also Read: 14 Best Restaurants near Sacramento Airport

4. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (4,242 acres) 

• Code: AUS

• Elevation: 165 m

The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, with the IATA code AUS, serves as a major gateway to the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. 

Catering to around 17 million passengers annually, AUS has established itself as a key player in connecting the region with destinations both domestic and international.

The airport is well-equipped to handle the influx of travelers seeking to experience the unique culture, music, and technological hub of Austin, providing a range of services and amenities designed for convenience and efficiency. 

With its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport plays a crucial role in the city’s connectivity and tourism.

Hub for: 

United Express, United Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Lufthansa, Hawaiian Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Delta Air Lines, British Airways, Copa Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Air Canada. 

Parking:

AUS provides handy parking choices right on the airport grounds. You can pick from two parking garages located a quick stroll away from the Barbara Jordan Terminal, with rates that accommodate any parking budget.

Public transport: 

Public transport is available at the Barbara Jordan Terminal, where Route 20 by the Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority departs every 15 minutes. 

Car rentals:

The airport has a consolidated rental center located in a parking garage to the northeast of the Barbara Jordan Terminal, linked to the Red Garage. 

Also Read : 9 Best Golf Courses Near Myrtle Beach Airport

5. Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (3,000 acres)

• Code: LBB
• Elevation: 1,000 m

Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport, or LBB for short, is located just five miles north of the bustling city of Lubbock in the heart of Texas! Originally known as Lubbock International Airport, got a bit of a name refresh in 2004 to honor Preston E. Smith, a former Texas governor and proud Texas Tech University alum.

Recognized as a primary commercial service airport. In 2019, it proudly welcomed over 520,000 passengers, making it the eighth busiest airport in the vast state of Texas. 

Among the smaller Texas cities, it leads the way in providing top-notch service and connectivity, only trailing behind the big names in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso.

Not just a stopover, it’s a crucial hub for FedEx and UPS, linking the South Plains with cities far and wide. Whether you’re flying in, shipping out, or just passing through, Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is your gateway to friendly skies and warmer welcomes.

Parking:

Parking at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB) is easy and affordable, offering a secure place for your car with good lighting, strong security, and full access for everyone, including those with disabilities. It’s perfect for all travelers looking for a worry-free start to their trip.

Ground transportation:

Ground transportation choices like taxis, limos, shuttle buses, and rideshare options, are all available right outside the terminal. Just head to the designated area at the green curb for a smooth pickup. To make things even easier, try setting up your ride in advance.

Also Read : 17 Best Restaurants Near Charlotte Airport  

6. San Antonio International Airport ( 2,305 acres)

• Code: SAT
• Elevation: 247 m
• Hub for: Merlin Airways

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is an international airport located in the Uptown Central area of San Antonio, Texas, roughly 8 miles north of the downtown area. 

It features three runways and spans over 2,305 acres. Sitting at an elevation of 809 feet above sea level, SAT is quite busy, with an average of 260 flights arriving and departing daily across its 27 gates.

These gates accommodate 14 airlines, offering non-stop flights to 53 destinations across the U.S. and Mexico. In terms of activity, it’s the sixth busiest airport in Texas, trailing behind major airports in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin, and it ranks as the 45th busiest in the U.S. based on passenger numbers.

Parking:

San Antonio International  Airport strives to simplify your parking experience at the airport, whether you’re staying for just a few hours or planning a longer trip. You can park your vehicle on-site for a maximum of 30 days.

Ground Transportation:

The airport features a consolidated rental car facility that spans 1.8 million square feet, which was finished in January 2018. You can access this facility by using a sky bridge from the mezzanine level of Terminal B.

7. William P. Hobby Airport (1,304 acres) 

• Code: HOU
• Elevation: 14 m

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), located about 7 miles from downtown Houston, Texas, is an international airport known for being Houston’s first commercial airport. 

It served as the city’s primary airport until the George Bush Intercontinental Airport opened in 1969. After a brief closure following the opening of Houston Intercontinental, Hobby Airport reopened to become a key hub for domestic flights and a significant center for private and corporate aviation.

Today, Hobby Airport operates as a crucial base for Southwest Airlines, which offers both international and domestic flights from this location, making up a large portion of the airport’s traffic. 

Hub for:

Southwest Airlines, Texas International Airlines, TranStar Airlines, L’Express Airlines

Parking:

Parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, featuring both handicap-accessible and electric vehicle charging spots. 

To ensure a spot for your vehicle, booking your parking spot ahead of your journey is advised. Additionally, shuttle services are available for those using the Economy parking areas.

Ground Transportation:

The Harris County Metropolitan Transit Authority, commonly known as METRO, operates services from Curbzone 13. Currently, Hobby Airport is served by four bus routes.

8. Dallas Love Field (1,300 acres) 

• Code: DAL
• Elevation: 148 m
• Hub for: Southwest Airlines, Legend Airlines, Texas International Airlines, TranStar Airlines

Dallas Love Field is a public airport owned by the city and is located about 6 miles northwest of downtown Dallas, Texas. 

Before the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport opened in 1974, Love Field was the main airport for Dallas. The airport spreads over 1,300 acres and is 487 feet above sea level, with two runways available for flights.

In addition to Southwest, several full-service fixed-base operators (FBOs) offer a range of general aviation services, including fuel, maintenance, hangar rentals, and air charters. The airport is also home to the City of Dallas Department of Aviation’s headquarters.

Ground Transportation:

The Love Link shuttle, run by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), offers rides between the airport terminal and the Inwood/Love Field station. 

This station is part of DART’s Orange and Green light rail lines. Riders can use the Love Link shuttle from the airport terminal for free.

Parking and Transportation:

Dallas Love Field provides a wide range of parking and transportation services. Information for taxi services and other ground transportation providers is readily available.

FAQs About The Biggest Airports In Texas

Wrap It Up!

Wrapping up, Texas’s eight biggest airports are like the state’s welcoming front doors, making it easy for everyone to come in and out, whether they’re flying across the state, the country, or even around the world.

From big airports in Dallas and Houston to the growing ones in San Antonio, Austin, and others, each one has its special way of helping Texas stay connected, lively, and on the move. 

They offer lots of flight options, different airlines to choose from, and places to go, showing just how important Texas is to everyone, whether you’re coming home or exploring new places.